Is Nitrofurantoin used for a tooth infection? 

Is Nitrofurantoin used for a tooth infection? 

No, Nitrofurantoin is not used for treating tooth infections and is not generally prescribed for that. Nitrofurantoin is frequently used for the management and treatment of: (1)

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Nitrofurantoin is commonly prescribed to treat UTIs caused by susceptible bacteria, including those affecting the bladder and urethra.
  • Cystitis: This refers to inflammation of the bladder, often caused by bacterial infections, which Nitrofurantoin can help treat.
  • Pyelonephritis: This is a more severe form of UTI that affects the kidneys. Nitrofurantoin can be used to treat uncomplicated cases of pyelonephritis.

If you think you have a tooth infection, talk to your healthcare provider. It’s not recommended to self-medicate, especially when you have an active bacterial infection in your body. 

Your doctor will examine you and will prescribe the best-suited antibiotic to treat your symptoms. 

What medications are used to treat tooth infections?

When it comes to treating tooth infections, the primary treatment involves the use of antibiotics. The choice of antibiotics may vary depending on the severity of the infection, the type of bacteria involved, and individual patient factors

Common antibiotics used for the treatment of tooth infections include: (2,3)

  • Amoxicillin 
  • Doxycycline 
  • Penicillin 
  • Erythromycin 
  • Tetracycline
  • Cephalexin 
  • Clindamycin

All of these antibiotics are prescription medications and should only be used if prescribed by your healthcare provider. 

It’s important to note that antibiotics alone may not be sufficient to treat tooth infections. Dental treatment such as tooth extraction, root canal therapy, or drainage of an abscess may also be necessary to fully address the underlying cause of the infection.

Other add-on treatments for tooth infections

In addition to antibiotics, there are other treatments that can be used for tooth infections. These may include: 

Dental Procedures

Depending on the severity and specific condition of the tooth infection, dental procedures may be necessary. This can include procedures such as root canal therapy, dental extraction (removal of the tooth), or incision and drainage if there is an abscess (collection of pus).

Pain Management

Tooth infections can be quite painful, so pain management is an important aspect of treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Advil), and Naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. (4)

However, it’s important to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before taking any medication.

Warm Saltwater Rinse

Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help soothe the infected area, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat this several times a day as needed.

Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is crucial in managing tooth infections. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. This helps prevent further infection and promotes healing.

Remember, these additional treatments are often used in combination with antibiotics when necessary. It’s important to consult with a dentist or healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan for your specific tooth infection.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

References

1.-

Squadrito FJ, del Portal D. Nitrofurantoin. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29262089.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470526

2.-

Ahmadi H, Ebrahimi A, Ahmadi F. Antibiotic Therapy in Dentistry. Int J Dent. 2021 Jan 28;2021:6667624. doi: 10.1155/2021/6667624. PMID: 33574843; PMCID: PMC7861949. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7861949/

3.-

Poveda Roda R, Bagan JV, Sanchis Bielsa JM, Carbonell Pastor E. Antibiotic use in dental practice. A review. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2007 May 1;12(3):E186-92. PMID: 17468711. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17468711/

4.-

Koh SWC, Li CF, Loh JSP, Wong ML, Loh VWK. Managing tooth pain in general practice. Singapore Med J. 2019 May;60(5):224-228. doi: 10.11622/smedj.2019044. PMID: 31187144; PMCID: PMC6535452. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6535452/